About SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND
Overview Signal Creek Campground is a year-round facility located in the Ward Lake Recreation Area, 7 miles north of downtown Ketchikan and about 4 miles north of the State ferry terminal. The campground straddles Signal Creek and lies on the banks of Ward Lake, with easy access to fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing.Recreation Hiking is a popular option, as the Ward Lake Recreation Area boasts seven trails. The Ward Lake Nature Travel meanders 1.3 miles around the lake. A large day-use complex with picnic sites and shelters is also available. Freshwater fishing, canoeing, kayaking, wildlife viewing and scenery are favorite draws at Ward Lake.Facilities Signal Creek Campground's sites can accommodate up to 10 people. Each campsite contains a picnic table, a campfire ring with grill and a gravel parking spur. Two hand pumps for drinking water and three vault toilets are provided. Water is provided during the peak season only. Firewood may be provided but is not guaranteed.Natural Features The campground is surrounded by an old-growth temperate rainforest comprised primarily of western hemlock and Sitka spruce. Signal Creek flows through the campground, and Ward Lake is adjacent. At nearly 17 million acres, the Tongass National Forest covers most of Southeast Alaska and is the largest forest in the national forest system. The Tongass surrounds the Inside Passage, the network of waterways that buffers the jagged Alaskan Coast and a cluster of coastline islands. The Tongass offers visitors a chance to view wildlife, including eagles, bears and spawning salmon. Expansive vistas, including fjords, glaciers and mountain peaks abound.
How to Get There
From the State ferry terminal, take Tongass Highway north 4.8 miles to milepost 7. Turn right onto Revila Road. Go 1.4 miles and turn right at the Ward Lake Road Intersection. Travel 1.1 miles past Ward Lake Day Use Area to the entrance sign for Signal Creek Campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND
Heading to SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232141) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND?
From the State ferry terminal, take Tongass Highway north 4.8 miles to milepost 7. Turn right onto Revila Road. Go 1.4 miles and turn right at the Ward Lake Road Intersection. Travel 1.1 miles past Ward Lake Day Use Area to the entrance sign for Signal Creek Campground.
How do I contact SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 907-225-2148.
References & Official Resources
